NAD's C399 is a high-performance hybrid amplifier and DAC combo. It uses an amplifier stage based on an nCore module, until now only available for the Masters series amplifiers. Its digital section features an ESS Sabre ES9028 digital-to-analog converter, supporting audio streams up to 32bit 384kHz PCM. The C399 is also the first amplifier to benefit from the latest generation of NAD's MDC (Modular Design Construction) technology: the MDC2. This allows for the addition of optional modules (not included), offering features such as multi-room audio streaming with BluOS, Dirac Live acoustic correction, and much more.

Like all NAD amplifiers, the C399 respects the basic principles of the brand: precise volume control with perfect channel balance, low-noise circuitry and input and output impedances suitable for HiFi use. Thus, with its HybridDigital nCore stage and its high-resolution ESS Sabre DAC, the C399 offers a refined sound reproduction.

An efficient amplifier

Part of NAD's Masters series, the C399's HybridDigital nCore amplifier is particularly efficient. It can deliver 180W of continuous power per channel and 250W of instantaneous power per channel, allowing the C399 to produce effortless musical transients. HybridDigital technology is renowned for its wide bandwidth, high current capability and stability even with demanding loudspeakers. Noise and distortion are extremely low under all operating conditions. Minute levels of harmonic distortion are dominated by second and third harmonics. These improvements allow the C399 to produce a neutral, distortion-free sound even at high listening levels, with excellent dynamics, richness of sound and excellent sound imaging.

On the DAC side, the ES9028 was selected for its wide dynamic range, ultra-low noise and distortion, and near zero jitter. This high-end DAC allows the C399 to reproduce all its digital sources with an amazing musicality, a chiseled soundstage and a great clarity.

MDC Technology & Optional Modules

In 2006, NAD introduced the Modular Design Concept (MDC), an innovative architecture that allows new functions to be added to existing products. The C399 is the first product to incorporate NAD's new MDC2 architecture. By enabling bi-directional communications between the module and the host component, MDC2 allows for the addition of interesting features.

Generous connectivity

The C399 has two optical and two coaxial digital inputs, as well as an HDMI-eARC for retrieving audio from a TV or computer, while controlling the amplifier's output with the TV remote. Analog connectivity is also present, with two stereo RCA line inputs, as well as an MM phono input with ultra-precise RIAA equalization and very low noise. The phono preamplifier is also equipped with an innovative circuit that suppresses the subsonic noise present on the pickups, without compromising the bass response. The line inputs are equipped with low noise buffer amplifiers to avoid any sound degradation.

In addition to its two speaker outputs, the C399 has a pre-out and two subwoofer outputs. A headphone output is also available, with a low output impedance and high output voltage capability, allowing the C399 to be used with demanding headphones.

The C399 also has a bi-directional Bluetooth connectivity. It is thus possible to broadcast music from a smartphone and then send it to a Bluetooth headset. Finally, we note the presence of IR inputs and outputs and 12V trigger in 3.5mm jack format.